New Testament
Matthew 4:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen.
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And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
What Matthew 4:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Jesus beginning his ministry by calling his first disciples. He is walking along the Sea of Galilee when he notices two brothers, Simon Peter and Andrew, who are busy fishing. This moment is significant because it marks the start of Jesus' relationship with his disciples, who will later play crucial roles in spreading his teachings. The act of fishing symbolizes their current occupation, but it also foreshadows their future mission of 'fishing for people' as they will be called to share the message of Jesus with others. This encounter highlights Jesus' ability to see potential in ordinary people and invites them to follow him, transforming their lives and purpose. It emphasizes the importance of responding to God's call, even when it comes in the midst of everyday activities.
How to apply Matthew 4:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize that God can call us in our daily lives, even during routine tasks. We should be open to His guidance and willing to follow where He leads, trusting that He has a purpose for us beyond our current circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Calling the Fishermen (Matthew 4:18–22)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 4:18 mean?
Matthew 4:18 describes Jesus calling his first disciples, Simon Peter and Andrew, while they are fishing. This moment signifies the beginning of their journey with Jesus and highlights how he sees potential in ordinary people.
What is the significance of fishing in Matthew 4:18?
In Matthew 4:18, fishing represents the current occupation of Simon Peter and Andrew, but it also symbolizes their future mission of 'fishing for people' as they are called to share Jesus' message with others.
Who are the brothers mentioned in Matthew 4:18?
The brothers mentioned in Matthew 4:18 are Simon, who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew. They were fishermen by trade before becoming disciples of Jesus.
What does this verse teach about discipleship?
Matthew 4:18 illustrates that discipleship begins with a personal call from Jesus, inviting individuals to leave their ordinary lives behind and follow him for a greater purpose.
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